Benefits + University. How does it work?

mh33

Hi, I was wondering if anyone knows what the procedure is if you're on Incapacity Benefit and then decide to go to University to do a full time 3 year Degree.

Are you no longer entitled to ANY benefit? Does it depend if you get a Student Loan? Ae you reassessed and put on a lower rate?

Thanks!

Indie_Kid

IB isn't an income based benefit. The DWP may argue that if you're well enough to study, you're well enough to work.

mh33

sh1305 wrote: »

IB isn't an income based benefit. The DWP may argue that if you're well enough to study, you're well enough to work

Thanks for the reply

I've been googling around for info and finally found some answers. The bit in bold - that's if you do a Degree which includes a placement year (working) which I wouldn't consider.

Indie_Kid

That's not always true.

AnxiousMum

I would think that if you can dedicate the hours and the work involved in obtaining ANY degree, that you would also be found fit for some kind of work? Also, if you are looking to take out student loans to fund this, how would you intend on paying them back if you are unable to work in the future and remaining on benefits?

enabledebra

If you are over 19 years old full time education will not in itself affect your entitlement to IB. Sometimes the move to university can trigger a reassessment of your incapacity for work but only if the demands of the course might call into doubt the findings of your last assessment. If they have one, you should contact the Student Union advice centre at your uni (they will usually advise you even before you apply). They should be able to identify your entitlements as a full time student from benefits and student funds.

If you are receiving means tested benefits your student loan will affect entitlement for most of the year but will be disregarded in July and August each year. This may mean you need to reapply each summer.

This website has good information:
http://www.skill.org.uk/

Oldernotwiser

AnxiousMum wrote: »

I would think that if you can dedicate the hours and the work involved in obtaining ANY degree, that you would also be found fit for some kind of work? Also, if you are looking to take out student loans to fund this, how would you intend on paying them back if you are unable to work in the future and remaining on benefits?

Someone in this situation would never have to worry about paying them back and the loans would simply be cancelled after 30 years. That's quite straightforward.

There's a great deal of difference between studying and working; many people are able to do one and not the other.